just another 'how can i make my 1.2 nova faster' thread

[ellis_12345]

i know this has been asked many times but there seems to be all sorts of answers.
its a 1.2 carb engine, i'm half way through replacing the head gasket timing belt etc at the mo and wondered if theres anything relatively cheap and simple that can be done. i'll hopefully be chucking a bigger engine in it next year so don't want to do anything too major

[Will F]

Weight saving.

[gitters27]

Just an SR cam and carb will make a noticeable difference,will need manifold with carb and have to pipe up auto choke,I would of thought it would cost no more than £100

[paul james]

If the engine you're planning on putting in is also a small block 8V then a decent exhaust and manifold wouldn't hurt the old 1.2 and could then be re-used. I wouldn't spend any money on the 1.2 specifically if your not keeping it, better to put the money in the shell. If you haven't already done it then go for better brakes so you can maintain the dizzying speed of the 1.2 for longer.

[ben doodar]

Lewis purple novas a 1.2 n I'm sure it's around 100bhp

[mowgli]

Save your money. Fit bigger brakes, better tyres, better suspension. The best thing by far for the money is to fit a 1.4 8v bottom end. (Avoid the c14se as you'll need a bigger gearbox too.

[mk1nova_rich]

Save your money. Fit bigger brakes, better tyres, better suspension

This. A 1.2 will go fairly well if the handling is sorted. No point splashing out on the engine if you plan to change. Plus the car will then be ready for the conversion

[Southie]

Weight saving.
This, get the car also to handle well and fit a quick rack and you'll be very happy... It's not always about how fast your car will go, also decent tyres really do help.
Also look into lower ratio gearboxes, you won't get a massive topend but upto 80mph and good handling you'll still have fun.

[ellis_12345]

Save your money. Fit bigger brakes, better tyres, better suspension.

This. A 1.2 will go fairly well if the handling is sorted. No point splashing out on the engine if you plan to change. Plus the car will then be ready for the conversion
this is kind of what i thought. brakes are sorted, suspension is the next thing on the list, the car will only be used on weekends so i dont want to be forking out hundreds.

[ellis_12345]

is there a decent alternative to the big ugly standard air filter box? lol

[meritlover]

is there a decent alternative to the big ugly standard air filter box? lol

no

[mowgli]

It's got 50hp if it's lucky, and a 90hp air filter as standard.